About the Restaurants

Spices dominate Reunion Island's kitchens, which are melting pots of Indian, African, Chinese, and European culinary traditions. The most ubiquitous dish is cari (curry), which is heavily influenced by the Indian population but flavored with island spices like vanilla. The dish that really puts Reunion Island's multiculturalism on display is fiery rougail. It starts with a standard European tomato sauce, with a bit of parsley, thyme, and a splash of wine. Next up is the African spice, a local hot chili pepper could melt the fillings in your mouth. Layered into this are bold flavors from Asia, such as ginger and cilantro. It's a ubiquitous condiment but can also be served as a main course over rice with shrimp, fish, chicken or sausage. Wash it down with Dodo, the local brown lager, or nip of Rhum Arrange, a flavored rum. Restaurants here run the gauntlet from 4-star, luxury establishments to hole-in-the-wall gems that shouldn't be missed. Dine with locals at one of the many "table d'hotes," (prix fixe) meals hosted at guest houses and featuring local cuisine.